Motorized Standing Wheelchair Problem Statement

For an updated project description, click on the following link for the Project Readiness Package.

A motorized standing wheelchair will allow the user to remain in a sitting position, similar to that of a standard motorized wheelchair, or allow the user to be in a standing position. The client has several physical and developmental disabilities. The client can stand but lacks back muscle strength, balance and stamina, and currently experiences physical and emotional damage from the extended use of her standard motorized wheelchair. This device will allow the user to have fuller access to daily activities compared to her current wheelchair.

This project is a continuation of the prototype developed in P15005. The current state of this prototype is marginally functional but it is not robust enough to withstand ongoing use and includes some potential safety hazards. However, the underlying lift mechanism concept of the existing prototype is a solid starting point for this project.

The goals of this project are to analyze the current design in order to increase functionality, usability, and safety. A key constraint is that the new prototype must use the battery power from the current system’s wheelchair. The transition between standing and sitting must be smooth, safe, and reliable. The expected end result is a functional prototype that allows the client to stand but in a manner which protects her from falling should she lose her balance or stamina. The final design and documentation should provide a technical paper to be submitted to the SB3C or RESNA conference. The final prototype should be a part of Imagine RIT and ready for everyday use.

Project Name

Motorized Standing Wheelchair

Project Number

P16005

Start Term

2151

End Term

2155

Faculty Guide

Art North, (585)734-3554

Primary Customer

Debbie Downey

Sponsor (financial support)

Rochester Institute of Technology

Project Management

Project Photos and Videos

Imagine RIT

Problem Definition

Systems Design

Subsystem Design

Preliminary Detailed Design

Detailed Design

Build & Test Prep

Subsystem Build & Test

Integrated System Build & Test

Integrated System Build & Test with Customer Demo

Customer Handoff & Final Project Documentation